Monalisa Bhosle Defends Interfaith Marriage Against 'Love Jihad' Accusations
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Thiruvananthapuram, March 12 (NationPress) Monalisa Bhosle, a name that gained immense popularity during the Kumbh Mela, on Thursday vehemently refuted claims that her interfaith marriage constitutes 'love jihad', labeling such allegations as unfounded and deceptive.
During a press conference held in the state capital a day post her wedding at a temple, Monalisa expressed that the media, particularly some Hindi outlets, had misrepresented the marriage, suggesting it involved religious conversion.
“That is not the case. False narratives are being propagated. Everyone deserves equality in society,” she stated.
Originating from Indore, Monalisa united in marriage with Farhan Khan from Maharashtra, after seeking protection from the Thampanoor Police Station due to her family's disapproval of their relationship.
The police later facilitated their wedding at the Arumanoor Sri Nainar Deva Temple with stringent security measures in place.
“I am an adult, and my true identity is Monalisa Bhosle. My family had arranged another marriage for me, which prompted my decision,” she mentioned, adding that she and Farhan had met approximately seven months prior during a film shoot.
The couple initially connected via Facebook around a year and a half ago, and their first meeting occurred when Monalisa visited Poovar for a film project.
When her family opposed the union, the couple sought police intervention for safety on Wednesday.
Monalisa’s father, Jai Singh Bhosle, was summoned to the police station, where officers informed the family that, being over 18, she had the legal authority to choose her spouse.
State CPI(M) Secretary, M.V. Govindan, and Education Minister V. Sivankutty were present at the ceremony and later congratulated the newlyweds.
Farhan explained that they selected Kerala for their wedding as they anticipated significant opposition elsewhere in the country.
“We intend to remain in Kerala for a while,” he stated, adding that their relationship flourished during a film shoot. Monalisa expressed gratitude for the support they have received in the state.
“Kerala is truly beautiful, and the people here have been incredibly supportive,” the social media sensation remarked.